On Monday, Brussels public prosecutor requested an arrest warrant for attempted murder and carrying a prohibited instrument for use as a weapon (the vehicle is considered to have been used as a weapon) against the 58-year-old motorist who drove at three pedestrians on Place de la Monnaie on Sunday night. He also requested the man undergo a psychiatric assessment as it appears from the initial findings that the suspect suffers from psychiatric problems. The first elements of the investigation seem to indicate this is not a terrorist act. It is as yet unclear if this was an accident or a deliberate act. The suspect did not appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The accident occurred on Sunday evening around 5:45pm at the intersection of Boulevard Anspach and Rue de l'Ecuyer, near Place de la Monnaie where the Brussels Christmas Market ice rink is located. For reasons as yet unknown, the driver of an Audi A6 drove at three pedestrians, who suffered slight injuries in the incident. The victims were taken to hospital and a forensic pathologist was appointed by the public prosecutor's department.
The driver was arrested by police soon after the incident and his license was confiscated.
(Source: Belga)
